Travel Alert: Japan Expected to Face Strong Winds and Heavy Rain as Storm Shanshan Approaches

Storm Shanshan intensified on Saturday over the waters near the Ogasawara Islands, approximately 1,000 kilometers south of Tokyo, according to the Meteorological Agency. The powerful storm is expected to track westward before turning northeast, bringing strong winds and heavy rainfall across a wide area of Japan.

As of 3 p.m. on Saturday, Storm Shanshan had a central pressure of 980 hectopascals, with sustained winds reaching up to 126 kilometers per hour and gusts as high as 180 kph.

The storm, also known as Typhoon No. 10 by the agency, is projected to approach or make landfall on Honshu or Shikoku by Tuesday afternoon. Rough weather is anticipated from western to eastern Japan through Wednesday, followed by impact in the northeastern regions late Wednesday into Thursday, and eventually Hokkaido by Friday.

Shanshan is expected to maintain typhoon strength for some time before weakening as it moves over land.

Authorities are advising residents in the storm's projected path to prepare for strong winds and heavy rainfall. Even areas farther from the center may experience severe weather as Shanshan advances.

Central Japan Railway (JR Central) has announced potential suspensions or delays on the Tokaido Shinkansen line for Tuesday and Wednesday due to the typhoon. Similarly, JR West has warned of possible service disruptions on Tuesday.